There are several significant lawsuits playing out at the moment that pertain to the controversial topic of deportation, particularly in light of recent shifts in government policies affecting illegal immigrants. The topics of deportation and illegal immigration are quite complex, which is why those facing deportation can benefit from consulting an immigration lawyer.

The O’Brien Law Group is a trusted immigration law firm based in in Louisville, Kentucky. We have more than 14 years of experience in the field of immigration law, and if you need help with remaining in the United States, acquiring a green card or with a range of other immigration-related matters, we can help. Please call us at 502-400-7890 to set up an appointment.

Government Funds Lawyers for Unaccompanied Immigrant Children

According to a report on Kentucky.com, the Obama Administration has decided to spend $4 million for lawyers to represent unaccompanied children immigrants in controversial deportation proceedings. Political opponents are criticizing this move, claiming that the funding is unlawful and could result in an unintended spike in illegal immigration.

According to the report, the most recent grants form part of a bigger project that intends to supply legal assistance to more than 2,500 children. The decision was inspired by a recent increase in the number of Central American children crossing or attempting to cross the U.S.-Mexico border. The number of these unaccompanied children has more than doubled since the previous year.

The number of unaccompanied children who arrived on the border last year totals nearly 60,000, and the vast majority of these children do not have any form of legal representation when they are forced to appear in immigration courts. Immigrants are legally allowed to have representation in court; however, they are not guaranteed to be provided one at government expense.

Deportation of Minors to Continue During Lawsuit

In another story involving the deportation of minors, Kentucky.com reports that a federal judge has not stopped the deportation proceedings of eight children who are currently suing the United States government over legal representation. According to the report, the decision was made due to the claim that the children had not yet exhausted their options through the established U.S. immigration court system.

The decision comes in the wake of a lawsuit brought by various immigration-rights advocacy groups, which aim to secure legal representation for minors. Without this representation, the advocacy groups claim that the minors’ Fifth Amendment rights are being violated.

As in many immigration cases in the United States, issues such as these at a federal level attract much political opposition, and opponents of the Obama Administration are concerned that light treatment of illegal immigrants will exacerbate the problem. Those who support the new efforts claim this is the least the United States can do while immigration reform remains stagnant in Congress.

If you would like guidance on your own personal situation pertaining to immigration matters, The O’Brien Law Group of Louisville, Kentucky can help. Give us a call at 502-400-7890, and we can provide you with an experienced deportation attorney to guide you through the process.